Constitutional right to freedom of belief, expression and association[edit]

The Constitution of Tuvalu provides for freedom of religion, and the Government generally respects this right in practice.[1] Societal abuses or discrimination based on religious belief or practice occur, but are relatively infrequent.[1]

Discrimination, including acts and threats of violence, occurred against Brethren Church members on Nanumanga, prompting some group members to move to Funafuti.[3] Subsequent legal action resulted in the determination of the Court of Appeal of Tuvalu that the constitutional rights of the members were breached.[5]

In a second legal action four people from Nanumaga sued in the High Court of Tuvalu claiming unlawful dismissal from their employment on grounds that included unlawful discrimination on the basis of religion and that their constitutional right to freedom of belief, expression and association have been denied. Three claims were dismissed, with a fourth plaintiff being awarded general damages and aggravated damages.[6]